Patna : Goat farming is playing a pivotal role in strengthening Bihar’s rural economy, providing both meat and milk while creating a significant source of supplementary income for farmers. Speaking at a workshop on modern goat rearing practices, Bihar’s Animal and Fisheries Resources Minister Renu Devi highlighted how goat farming is emerging as an effective avenue for self-employment across the state.
The workshop, held at a private hotel on Exhibition Road in Patna, was inaugurated by Renu Devi, who emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting goat rearers. Experts in animal husbandry and experienced farmers participated in the event, where they discussed advanced techniques and scientific approaches to goat rearing aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability.
“Goat farming can substantially increase the income of rural families, and by incorporating modern techniques and connecting farmers with an organized market system, we can ensure a sustainable livelihood for goat rearers,” said Renu Devi. She noted that while Bihar produced 176,000 tonnes of meat in the financial year 2004-05, this figure had risen to 404,300 tonnes by 2023-24.
To further promote goat rearing, the government is offering a subsidy of 50 to 60 percent on the establishment of goat farms under the Integrated Goat and Sheep Development Scheme. This initiative aims to encourage more villagers to take up goat farming, boosting both employment and income generation.
Bihar Among Top Producers
Highlighting Bihar’s performance in livestock production, Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal and Fisheries Resources Department, Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi, pointed out that India is the world’s leading milk producer and ranks second globally in goat rearing. Bihar holds the fourth position nationally in both goat rearing and mutton production.
“Our target is to move beyond this position and secure the top spot in goat rearing,” said Dr. Vijayalakshmi. She noted that Bihar’s livestock sector contributes approximately Rs90,000 crore annually to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) through the production of milk, eggs, fish, and meat.
The workshop was attended by senior officials, including Director of Animal Husbandry Directorate Navdeep Shukla, Additional Director Dr. Rajni Raman Srivastava, Joint Director (Headquarters) Dr. Arvind Kumar, and Joint Director (Animal Health) Dr. Sunil Kumar Thakur. Their presence underscored the government’s focus on enhancing livestock-based livelihoods and promoting rural economic growth.
